Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Easton, PA & Throggs Neck, NY
When students choose between SUNY Maritime College and Lafayette College, they're comparing specialized career preparation versus liberal arts breadth. SUNY Maritime trains students for maritime, engineering, and transportation careers in New York, while Lafayette offers a traditional liberal arts education in Pennsylvania.
The data reveals a clear tradeoff: specialized training at lower cost versus prestigious liberal arts at premium pricing. These schools serve different student populations with different career goals.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,000
federal loans
$23,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$59,000
borrowed by parents
$38,700
borrowed by parents
SUNY Maritime is predominantly engineering-focused, with 46% of graduates earning degrees in engineering fields, plus 16% in business. The largest programs include Marine Transportation (110 graduates) and Mechanical Engineering (49).
Lafayette has a different academic profile: 37% Social Sciences, 20% Engineering, and 5% Arts. Lafayette's top programs include Economics (117 graduates), Political Science (85), and Mechanical Engineering (57).
This program composition explains the different career trajectories and regional employment patterns between the institutions.
For students prioritizing specialized career preparation and financial value, SUNY Maritime delivers higher earnings at $10,715/year less than Lafayette. The typical maritime graduate earns $4,540 more annually while carrying $13,050 less total debt — a significant financial advantage.
Lafayette offers a prestigious liberal arts education, stronger completion rates, and broader academic exploration, making it the better choice for students seeking traditional college experiences and can justify the premium cost. The data points to SUNY Maritime as the stronger financial value for career-focused students, but Lafayette serves different goals.
If you're drawn to maritime, transportation, or specialized engineering careers, SUNY Maritime provides direct pathways at lower cost. If you value liberal arts breadth and prestige, Lafayette justifies its premium for the right student.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
